The Vacancy Advertising Scheme (VAS) is used to fill posts through level transfer, progression and promotion (other than where JSAC accreditation is a mandatory requirement). Further information on these terms and how they fit with the selection process is available by clicking here.

Before using VAS, consideration must be given to:

• any staff declared surplus. Evidence must be maintained on file (see below) to confirm that the use of surplus staff has been considered.
• any staff for whom a managed transfer is appropriate

To enable the management of staff reductions and the redeployment of surplus staff during the restructuring of Headquarters functions across the Home Office (including the Prison Service) the Home Office Departmental Reform procedures for the redeployment of surplus staff must be applied. Wherever it is practicable to do so Governors should also apply the principles of the procedures when considering staffing for administrative posts.

The grades covered by VAS and for which Governing Governors and Heads of Groups/Area Managers have devolved authority to run selection exercises can be accessed by clicking here.

Special considerations apply to Prison Officer, Psychologists with reserved rights for movement to Higher Psychologist, certain Industrial/Agricultural grades, Chaplains, Heads of Finance and AO posts.

The filling of Operational Senior Manager 'in charge' posts is dealt with outside of the VAS scheme and is managed by Personnel Management Group at Headquarters. Expressions of interest will normally be sought when filling these posts.

Ensuring Equality of Opportunity

Those involved in VAS must avoid prejudice or discrimination and must assess candidates objectively against the requirements of the post. The Service operates the Guaranteed Interview Scheme (GIS) and reasonable adjustments must be made to accommodate disabled applicants.

In order that the Service can collect monitoring information in a consistent way, the VAS monitoring form must be completed. For details of how to complete and submit the form click here.

All VAS paperwork must be retained on an appropriate file and kept for at least 18 months after sign-off of the panel report to provide an audit trail. A modular training course is available for those providing administrative support to the process should this be required. This is run by Training and Development Group in Newbold Revel who can be contacted for further information.

Guidance on good practice for those taking part in the process is available by clicking here.

A guidance sheet is also available for panel member's to help guard against bias.